Sony delays Skype for PSP in Japan

Accessories "did not meet the Skype specifications"

23 January 2008 11:27 GMT / By Amy-Mae Elliott

Only weeks after confirming that the PSP was to get Skype VoIP calling functionality, Sony has delayed the introduction of the service in Japan as the necessary peripherals about to launched have not been approved by Skype.

A statement on the company's Japanese site reads: "Sony Computer Entertainment Japan ... announced that it would postpone the release of two microphone products for PSP, SINGLE PACK (with one microphone, PSPJ-15010) and TWIN PACK (with two microphones, PSPJ-15011), scheduled to be released in Japan on Thursday, January 24th, 2008".

"SCEJ planned to release the microphone along with the introduction of Skype features for the new slim and light PSP. However, it was found that the microphone did not meet the Skype specifications in part to obtain certification and SCEJ has determined to postpone the release of the microphone. New release date will be announced as soon as decided."

"With this, SCEJ has also reached a decision to postpone the introduction of the Skype features and services in Japan, scheduled in late January as part of the system software update for PSP. Solutions to enable users to start using Skype features and services on their PSP are being sought for and will be announced in due course."

A similar announcement in all territories that were the get the service is now expected.